Legendary musician Billy Joel has canceled all of his upcoming concert dates following a diagnosis of Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH)—a brain disorder that has impacted his hearing, vision, and balance. At 76, the iconic “Piano Man” singer has made the difficult but necessary decision to step away from the spotlight and focus on recovery.
“This condition has been exacerbated by recent concert performances,” read a statement posted to Joel’s Instagram. “Under his doctor’s instructions, Billy is undergoing specific physical therapy and has been advised to refrain from performing during this recovery period.” Fans who had purchased tickets for scheduled shows across North America and the UK will receive automatic refunds.
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NPH is a rare condition most commonly found in individuals over 65 and is caused by a buildup of cerebrospinal fluid in the brain. The condition can cause problems with walking, bladder control and thinking, with symptoms worsening if left untreated. It’s relatively rare and can be hard to diagnose. It can be treated successfully with surgery to install a tube to drain excess fluid. Patients may need physical therapy in addition to surgery.
Joel’s health issues first came to light earlier this year after he tripped and fell during a February concert in Connecticut. Though he finished the performance, he later postponed his shows through June. In March, his team shared that he had undergone surgery and was undergoing physical therapy, expressing optimism about a full recovery. The tour was expected to resume in Pittsburgh on July 5.
While the most recent announcement of a full tour cancellation shocked many fans, Joel’s loved ones remain hopeful. His wife, Alexis Roderick, offered heartfelt thanks on social media: “Thank you for the outpouring of love and support. We are so grateful for the wonderful care and swift diagnosis we received.”
She continued, “Bill is beloved by so many, and to us, he is a father and husband who is at the center of our world. We are hopeful for his recovery and look forward to seeing you all in the future.”
Support has also come from Joel’s ex-wife, supermodel Christie Brinkley, who posted a video of their daughter, Alexa Ray, dancing at one of his recent shows. “Dear Billy, the whole Brinkley gang is sending you lots of love and good wishes for a full and speedy recovery,” she wrote. “I was looking for some cute photos of you and Alexa to send you, when I came across this clip from a recent concert. It made me laugh … but it also reminded me of all the joy you create, and all the sensational sing-alongs you’ve [led]. You turn an arena of strangers into a living room full of friends as we all sway in unison.”
She added, “I’m sure I’m speaking for everyone in that room when I say please take good care of yourself, we all want you back in that white hot spotlight, you’re OUR piano man. And we’re always in the mood for your melodies and we all hope you’re feeling alright! We Love You, the kids, me and an arena or two!”
Joel’s fans have also flooded social media with messages of support, sharing memories of his decades-spanning career. The Rock and Roll Hall of Famer has sold over 150 million records, earned 33 Top 40 hits, and was recently celebrated for completing his record-breaking 10-year residency at Madison Square Garden.
Despite the setback, Joel remains optimistic and grateful. “I’m sincerely sorry to disappoint our audience,” he said. “Thank you for understanding.”
As Billy Joel takes time to heal, fans and loved ones alike remain hopeful that the Piano Man will one day return to the spotlight, stronger than ever.
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